Pee-wee Herman actor Paul Reubens dead at 70: Cher, Kelly Ripa, and more pay tribute

The world of comedy and children’s TV was left devastated when it was announced that Paul Reubens, known for creating the character Pee-wee Herman, passed away at the age of 70.

The actor was well known for his physical comedy and mass appeal, creating an institution out of Pee-wee Herman that was untouchable throughout the 1980s.

His estate released a statement on Monday, July 31 announcing that after a private battle with cancer over the last six years, Reubens had died, leaving many in the entertainment industry to mourn his loss.

From Sarah Michelle Gellar to Kim Cattrall, here are some of the celebrities who have paid tribute to the comedian and his legacy…

Sarah Michelle Gellar

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Sarah Michelle Gellar revealed that she and Reubens were close friends, sharing a photo from one of their text conversations on her birthday.

Kim Cattrall

© Instagram

On an obituary post for the comedian, Kim Cattrall wrote: “Such sad, sad news. Always brilliant. Always a favorite. RIP Paul x.”

Jimmy Kimmel

Jimmy Kimmel shared an emotional tweet in honor of the late actor, calling him a “brilliant and original comedian” and stating “my family and I will miss him.”

Conan O’Brien

Conan O’Brien spoke highly of the “magic, generosity, artistry, and devout silliness of Paul Reubens” in his tribute shared on Twitter.

Katie Couric

Through an Instagram post capturing more details of his life and illness, Katie Couric shared a personal statement, which read: “So sad to hear this news. Paul Reubens, the children’s entertainer known as Pee-wee Herman, has died after a battle with cancer. He was 70 years old.”

Cher

Cher kept her tribute to Reubens simple and heartfelt, quoting William Shakespeare’s Hamlet and writing: “Goodbye Paul Goodnight sweet prince May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”

Bette Midler

Bette Midler reacted to the devastating news by sharing her own grief, adding: “This is so hard to believe.”

Natasha Lyonne

As one of his earliest co-stars as a child actor, Natasha Lyonne posted an emotional account of their relationship, adding: “Thank you for my career & your forever friendship all these years & for teaching us what a true original is.”

The Muppets

The official handle for The Muppets shared their own tribute to the comedian, often a guest star on the show, with photos from his appearances, saying “he brought a burst of joy, creativity, and laughter everywhere he went.”

Kelly Ripa

Kelly Ripa shared a few throwback photos of herself with Reubens, writing: “This man was kinder, funnier and more thoughtful than most. #RIP Paul Reubens.”